Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Briggs & Stratton compression release, briggs stratton, cam lobes

Question
I have a Briggs & Stratton 3.5 hp horizontal shaft engine mounted on a side walk edge-er. Engine model 91232 type 0129. There is no valve movement when the crankshaft is rotated. The illustrated parts list on the B&S site shows the standard one piece camshaft and gear, but when I opened the case to see what going on I find that the cam and gear is a multi-piece assembly with a spring arrangement allowing the cam lobs to turn freely on the cam shaft. This is for “easy start” compression release I guess, but I have never encountered one before.
Can you tell me how this is supposed to work and where I can find a parts breakdown of it so I can figure out what’s wrong with this one?


Answer
 Hello Jim:

 Im Sorry but I have Never Seen a Cam Setup the Style you Described. If the Cam Lobes are Not Turning the Compression Release Cant Work. Actually the Engine Would be Hard to Start because of NO Release of Compression from the Valves Not Opening at All when the Engine is Turning. Replace the Cam with the One Listed in the IPL. This Cam has to be Broken. From the Breakdown I see the Governor is External(a Governor Vane) and is Not what you are Seeing. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks.

 Good Luck

 Respectfully

 John